FAQ

My morning doesn’t start until I’ve had my first cup of tea. How bad is this for my teeth?

Tea and coffee are safe to drink in moderation. However, over time, large amounts can cause staining and damage. In addition to caffeine, tea and coffee contain chromogens, deeply pigmented molecules that adhere to dental enamel. They also contain tannins, which boost a chromogen molecule’s ability to attach to dental enamel. Black tea is worse than black coffee, because coffee is lower in tannins.

How can I protect my teeth from damage?

The enamel on our teeth is hard, but as we all know, it can be chipped and cracked. In addition to following the instructions of your hygienist, here are some other ways you can protect your teeth:

Decide against tongue and lip piercings, which can fracture teeth and increase infection risk.

Should I update my manual toothbrush to an electric?

When used appropriately, a manual toothbrush is as effective as a powered toothbrush. The key is to brush for the recommended two to three minutes, using short strokes at a 45-degree angle to the gums, and covering the entire tooth surface – inner, outer, and chewing.

I’m pregnant. Is it safe for me to go to the dentist?

Congratulations! Yes, you should continue to see your dentist, as pregnancy can increase certain dental issues. Be sure to inform your dentist that you are pregnant and if you’re experiencing any changes in your oral health.

When should my child receive his/her first dental check-up?

Ideally, you should seek a dentist for your child when the first tooth appears and no later than their first birthday.

Are dental X-rays safe?

Yes. New digital X-ray machines limit the low-dose radiation to a beam that targets only the areas needing to be filmed, faster film speeds allow for shorter exposure times, and the use of film holders prevents slipping, reducing the need for repeated exposure due to retakes. Stray radiation is almost non-existent with the use of modern dental X-ray machines, but the use of lead-lined, full-body aprons protect against even that possibility. Every two years, federal law requires X-ray machines to be checked for safety and accuracy.

Amalgam Fillings

Bonded White Fillings

I’ve heard that my silver-colored fillings contain mercury. Should I have them replaced?

Dental amalgam (silver) fillings contain silver, tin, copper, and liquid mercury, which are combined to form an inert (non-active) alloy. According to the FDA, CDC, the American Dental Association (ADA), and a number of other public health agencies, there is no link between this type of filling and any known health issue. Because of speculation and controversy, amalgam is the most researched and tested dental filling material on the market. In our office, silver fillings aren’t replaced if there is nothing wrong with them, but when cracks or decay are seen in the tooth, then replacement with a crown or tooth-colored filling would be recommended.

Why don’t my dentures fit right anymore?

The tissues and bones of your mouth may shrink (atrophy) with the passage of time or with the gain or loss of body weight, causing a change in the fit of your dentures. A simple reline may help them fit snugly again. However, if you’ve worn your dentures for a number of years, or the bases are too far out of shape, it may be time for replacements. It is counterproductive to use more denture adhesive to try to make them hold better, because this may lead to faster bone loss and additional problems with the fit of your dentures.

This is just a sampling of often-asked questions. Have one of your own? Don’t hesitate to give us a call at (302) 998-6300 so we can assist you.

Subject: Important Message from Dental Arts Of Delaware

We hope this message finds you and your family in good health. Our community has been through a lot of the last few months, and all of us are looking forward to resuming some version of our normal habits and routines. While many things have changed, one thing has remained the same at Dental Arts Of Delaware: our constant commitment to your safety.

As you have surely seen during your visits to our office, infection control has always been a top priority for our practice. Our strict processes have constantly made the care you receive at Dental Arts Of Delaware both safe and comfortable.

Our office follows infection control recommendations made by the American Dental Association (ADA, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). We continue to closely monitor the recommendations of these agencies so that we are up-to-date on any new rulings or guidance that may be issued.

When it is time for your next appointment, you will see some notable changes, along with our already strict infection control protocols. For example:

Our office will communicate with you ahead of your appointment to ask you some screening questions. You will be asked those same questions again when you are in the office.

When entering the office, we will ask you to wash your hands and rinse with a medicated mouth rinse.

You will notice that our reception area has fewer seats, and no longer offers magazines, or kids’ prizes.

When you arrive at the office, you will be asked to call from your car to let us know you are here and someone will be waiting at the front door of the office to escort you back to the treatment area. You will need to be wearing a mask to enter the office.

Appointments will be managed to allow for social distancing between patients. There will be fewer patients and team members in the office at any one time, and rooms intentionally left empty.

We look forward to seeing you again and are happy to answer any questions that you may have about the steps we take to keep you, and every patient, safe in our practice. We appreciate your patience as we get back to this new normal.

To make your appointment, please call our office at 302-998-6300.

Thank you for being our patient. We value your trust and loyalty, and look forward to welcoming back our patients, neighbors, and friends in the safest way possible.

Sincerely,Dr. Fink, Dr. Appleman and the entire Dental Arts Of Delaware team